The Major

A major in Physics consists of the following courses:

PHYS 131 Introduction to Physics:Newtonian Mechanics or 132 Introduction to Physics: Gravity and the Earth or 141 Introduction to Physics: Gravity and the Cosmos or 142 Introductory Mechanics: Matter and Interactions, and PHYS 151 Introduction to Physics: Relativity and Particles

In the programs suggested below, the courses in parentheses are optional; the others are required for the major. Keep in mind that these programs are flexible and are intended only as guidelines for planning a sequence of courses for the physics major.

The non-physics courses listed are required by the engineering schools involved.

* Note that 131 may be skipped upon successfully passing the departmental placement exam, with 141 strongly suggested as a replacement for 131.

1 Three-credit course offered first half of term

2 Three-credit course offered second half of term

Integrative Exercise (Comps)

Passing an integrative exercise, or "comps," is part of the requirement for completion of the baccalaureate degree at Carleton. Comps is usually taken during the senior year, although in some cases (double majors, 3-2 program) comps may be taken during the junior year.

We conceive of comps as a learning and sharing experience for both students and faculty. The integrative exercise in physics consists of an extensive study by each student in some field and/or topic in physics, culminating in a 70-minute presentation during the winter or spring term. In addition two papers are required: a short introduction before the presentation and a longer summary after it. Each year the final papers will be bound and made available to the public in the library and at the departmental office; students also have the option of storing their comps electronically in the library. The topic chosen may involve a currently active field of research, a significant development in the history of physics, or an integrative theme from the physics curriculum. It must be sufficiently broad to allow the student to synthesize material from the various courses required for the major. Past topics have included solar satellite power systems, the aurora borealis, gravitational waves, optical fibers, universality in chaos, controlled nuclear fusion, atmospheric tides, scanning tunneling electron microscopy, residential application of solar power, and superfluid helium and its vortices. Comps represents a stringent test of a student's integration of knowledge, research and independent study skills, and writing and speaking ability. It also involves group interaction, with students listening to, questioning, and offering written criticism of each other's presentations. Seniors are required to attend ten comps talks in the department and write reflection papers on two of the comps talks.